Environment

Free Solar Power to Poorest Citizens of Peru

Free Solar Power to Poorest Citizens of Peru
Bernadine Racoma

The Peruvian government is planning to implement a program that will benefit millions of poor families by giving them free electricity. The program is called the National Photovoltaic Household Electrification Program. This initiative aims to provide the poorest citizens of Peru with sufficient electricity using sustainable technology in the form of photovoltaic panels.

Since the discovery that solar energy can be converted into electricity, its modern and practical applications have steadily increased. Still, there is much to explore in harnessing this natural and free source of power.

The power of the sun

Despite the fact that Peru is now amongst the countries of the world with a fast rising economy, the reality is millions of families are deprived of the benefits of electricity. This is especially true for those located in the remote areas of Peru. Even though there are available technological advancements, not all Peruvians enjoy the basic conveniences brought by electricity that make modern living so much easier. With this in mind the government of Peru is going to implement a program that targets the needs of the poorest citizens of the country.

According to Jorge Merino, Energy and Mining Minister, the National Photovoltaic Household Electrification Program will use high technology photovoltaic (PV) panels. These panels are going to absorb solar energy and will convert it into electrical power for household use.

The first stage

The energy program dedicated for the poor will initially target a total of 500,000 households and shall be strictly given to those in dire need. Factors such as lack of access to access power grids and remote location are going to be prioritized. Soon after, with good results, this free electricity program will benefit more than two million families.

The program is receiving favorable comments from the populace. Many are saying that this initiative clearly shows the increasing concern of the government and its positive efforts in providing relevant intervention for the urgent needs of population.

Photovoltaics simplified

Simplified, photovoltaics is as a method of converting solar radiation into electrical current. The process includes the use of solar panels, which serve to gather and store solar energy. There is a wide range of application of photovoltaic technology aside from conversion into electricity for household use. European countries such as France use solar power to charge electronic cars for public transport. The French government has already built charging stations with solar roofs where electric cars can be recharged. There is also quite a number of functional solar power plants across the globe catering to millions of consumers, both residential and commercial. Solar energy has proven to be an efficient and practical solution for man’s energy needs.

Positive effects of using solar energy

With this new program the Peruvian government will provide free electricity in a manner that is friendly to the environment and cost effective as well. Solar panels do not cost quite as much now compared to when it was first discovered. Solar energy is also becoming the preferred energy source given the alarming depletion of other resources such as coal and oil. It will take hundreds of centuries before the sun loses its capability to emit solar energy for human beings to utilize.

Photo Credit: Peru

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